Got pheasant? FWP has a program where you can establish themBy Moosetrack Megan

It’s not too late to submit your application for 2016 pheasant releases through Montana’s Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program.

Landowners interested in raising and releasing ring-necked pheasants have until Jan. 15, 2016 to submit an application.

Under Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Upland Game Bird Release Program, landowners may apply annually for up to five consecutive years to establish pheasants.

Landowners may either raise their own pheasants with the appropriate state permits or contact a pheasant raiser to provide pheasants for release. All pheasants must be certified through the National Poultry Improvement Plan.

Projects must comprise at least 100 contiguous acres of land and contain a combination of habitat components – including cover and food – that upland game birds need to survive. Lands enrolled in the pheasant release program must allow free public access to hunt upland game birds during the season the releases take place.

Applications for pheasant releases must be postmarked by Jan. 15, 2016 and mailed to FWP in Helena. Pheasant releases will take place between Aug. 1 and Sept. 15.

Hunting preserves, lands that host a commercial hunting enterprise, and lands where hunting rights are leased or paid for, are not eligible.

For more information, and to download an application form, visit FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov – search “Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program,” or contact Debbie Hohler at 406-444-5674, or by email at dhohler@mt.gov.